As electric vehicle (EV) adoption accelerates in the Philippines, the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) is prioritising the expansion of charging infrastructure, policy implementation, and industry collaboration to facilitate a seamless transition to electric mobility.

EVAP has emphasised that addressing key challenges, particularly the limited availability of charging stations, is essential to further accelerating EV adoption nationwide. The organisation has been actively coordinating with stakeholders, including energy providers, mall operators, real estate developers, and local government units, to increase the number of charging stations across the country.

This initiative is critical to ensuring that EV users have widespread and reliable access to charging hubs, thereby reducing range anxiety and enhancing consumer confidence in electric mobility.

"A robust charging infrastructure is essential to building consumer confidence in EVs. That is why we are continuously engaging with both the private sector and the government to accelerate the rollout of charging stations," said EVAP President Edmund Araga.

Currently, there are over 300 charging stations in the country, with more than 100 located in Metro Manila. Additional stations are under development in Cebu and Davao. However, this remains insufficient to meet the government's target of 7,000 charging stations by the end of the year, as outlined in the Comprehensive Roadmap for the Electric Vehicle Industry.

EVAP aims to establish more charging facilities in key urban centres and provincial locations to make long-distance EV travel more viable.

In addition to infrastructure expansion, EVAP has underscored the importance of compliance with safety and quality standards to ensure a smooth transition to electric mobility. This highlights the need for collaboration with the Bureau of Philippine Standards to standardise battery technology, charging connectors, and safety protocols.

EVAP has been working closely with government agencies such as the Department of Energy, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Land Transportation Office to develop policies that encourage EV adoption. A key milestone in this effort was the passage of the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) in 2022, which introduced tax incentives, mandated the installation of EV charging stations in establishments, and set fleet conversion targets for both the public and private sectors.

"Our advocacy has always been clear: a strong policy framework is necessary to incentivise EV adoption and support the local EV industry. With EVIDA in place, the government, private sector, and consumers are now working together to make EVs the new standard in Philippine transportation," Araga stated.

The adoption of EVs is gaining momentum as both private vehicle owners and the transport sector increasingly recognise the cost savings and environmental benefits of electric mobility. Data from the DTI indicates that the number of registered EVs increased by 45% in 2024, with more automakers introducing electric cars, e-motorcycles, and electric public transport vehicles. Nissan, BYD, and Hyundai are leading the market, while transport cooperatives are transitioning to electric jeepneys under the Public Utility Vehicle Modernisation Programme.

Despite these advancements, challenges persist. EVAP continues to advocate for stronger engagement from local governments to establish EV-friendly ordinances, expand workforce training through TESDA's EV technician programmes, and promote financing options that make EV ownership more accessible to Filipino consumers.

EVAP remains committed to advancing electric mobility in the Philippines, ensuring that infrastructure, policy, and industry development align to support the country's transition to clean energy.

"The future of Philippine mobility is electric. With sustained government support, industry cooperation, and growing consumer awareness, EV adoption can become a reality for all Filipinos," Araga concluded.